India's flower exports up 33 per cent in 2008-09

The value of exports of flowers from the country increased over 33 per cent to Rs65.63 crore during 2008-09 (up to February 09) from Rs48.75 crore during the whole of the financial year 2007-08.

India exported 6,972 tonnes of flowers worth a total Rs65.63 crore till February 2009 in the current financial year (2008-09) against exports of 4,515 tonnes worth Rs48.75 crore in 2007-08 and 11,903 tonnes worth Rs342.14 crore 2006-07, an official release said.

The government has been coordinating with export promotion agencies such as Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Export Inspection Council (EIC) by providing necessary technical inputs and financial assistance, the release added.

Meanwhile, commerce and industry minister Anand Sharma has exhorted exporters to develop a strategic relationship with West Africa.

Addressing a business seminar in Nigeria, he emphasised the two countries to forge new partnerships. He also stressed the need for Indian business community to harness the immense opportunities in the mining, metal, energy, agriculture and infrastructure sectors.

The seminar was attended by more than 300 business persons from India and Nigeria.